KRUM — Citypublic library officials are
in the process of hiring a consultant who will determine how much it will cost
to construct a new, larger library.

For years, library officials have said
they needed more building space to accommodate their reading programs and
services, which the city has outgrown.

“We’re at the point that when a new book
comes in, we have to take an older one off the shelf,” said Donna Pierce,
library director. “I don’t want to take Shakespeare off the shelf just because
he isn’t circulating as much as newer books.”

The current library is housed in an
estimated 2,400-square-foot facility that has little room for maneuvering
around bookcases and shelves.

According to library officials, they are
considering constructing a 13,000-square-foot building, which is more than five
times the current building’s size.

Library officials gave a presentation to
council members Monday about starting a campaign to raise funds for the new
library. During the meeting, council members accepted the idea of the campaign
and gave Pierce the go ahead to find a consultant.

“We’re looking over a consultant’s
contract now,” Pierce said. “I’m just looking over the details before council
approves it.”

Krum City Council members approved the
temporary appointment of a consultant, who will outline a campaign timeline.
Pierce said she hopes to have the consultant appointed by the next council
meeting Jan. 7.

Pierce said she believes the fundraising
campaign could take up to three years.

She said hiring a consultant is the
first step of the process. She said the next step will involve the consultant
estimating how much it would cost to construct the building and then finding
sources of revenue.

Early figures estimate that the new
building could cost between $3.5 million and $4.5 million, which includes all
construction, furnishings and computers.

“I’m hoping we can find big donors
willing to help us out,” she said.

About four years ago, the Krum school
district donated land located near Krum Middle School to the city for the new
library.

“The school district made a generous
donation and it is a big help,” Pierce said.

Pierce said the new library could also
serve as a meeting area for local organizations and groups.

“We currently don’t have a meeting place
in town and I’m hoping by having more space, we accommodate everyone,” she
said.

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